Höhereck Nature Reserve: A Biodiversity Hotspot

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Discover Höhereck Nature Reserve in Dürnstein: a haven for diverse wildlife, rare plants, and stunning landscapes in the heart of the Wachau.

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Höhereck

Höhereck Nature Reserve, near Dürnstein, Austria, is a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. This dry grassland habitat supports a wide array of plant and animal species, including rare butterflies, reptiles, and birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Höhereck

Unnamed Road, Dürnstein, 3601, AT

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially on the rocky grasslands.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as Höhereck is home to a variety of bird species.
Visit in spring or early summer to see the dry grasslands in full bloom with colorful flowers.

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Getting There

Walking

Höhereck Nature Reserve is located near Dürnstein. From the Dürnstein town center, head east, following signs for Oberloiben. The reserve is situated on a ridge between Kellerberg and Loibenberg. A prominent landmark at the base of the mountain is the war memorial, which can help you orient yourself. There are no entrance fees for accessing the area.
Public Transport

To reach Höhereck using public transport, take the Wachaubus to Oberloiben. From Oberloiben, follow the hiking trails towards Höhereck. Alternatively, the Wachaubahn operates on weekends. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare within the Wachau region typically costs around €3-5.

Discover more about Höhereck

Höhereck Nature Reserve, situated east of Dürnstein in Lower Austria, has been under protection since 2008. As part of the Wachau region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Höhereck is a vital component of the Fauna-Flora-Habitat area and the Wachau-Jauerling bird protection area. This unique area features a diverse landscape of rocky grasslands, dry grasslands, shrubs, and woodlands.The reserve is home to a remarkable variety of species. Ornithologists have identified 27 breeding bird species, including endangered birds such as the hoopoe, woodlark, wryneck, middle spotted woodpecker and rock bunting. Reptiles such as the slow worm, sand lizard, green lizard, smooth snake and Aesculapian snake also find refuge here. The area is particularly noted for its butterfly diversity, with 91 of the 172 butterfly species found in Lower Austria residing here, including rarities like the clouded apollo, violet copper, white-spotted sable and black-spotted blue.Visitors can explore the area and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of this protected landscape. The geological foundation of Höhereck is Gföhl gneiss, with loess and loam covering parts of the eastern slope. The western slope is characterized by natural mixed oak forest and planted black pine.